The city of Lohja has agreed to sell the Karjalohja health center building to a local village association for the symbolic price of one euro, marking a significant step towards the establishment of a local health facility. The move, passed unanimously by the city council, is conditional on an expert valuation of the property and the confirmation of state aid associated with the sale. The condition for the state aid requires the association to prove it has not received more than 300,000 euros in public support over the past three years, in line with EU regulations on state aid regulations under De minimis rules.

The village association, established in June 2025 according to its chairperson, Jussi Leppänen, views the sale as a pivotal moment for the community's healthcare access. By leasing the building to entrepreneurial doctors and other healthcare professionals, the association aims to provide essential medical services that are locally accessible. This initiative reflects a growing trend of communities taking proactive approaches to their healthcare needs, especially in rural areas where health services are often limited.

The city council is expected to make a separate decision regarding the approval of the state aid and the finalization of the property sale later. If successful, this project could serve as a model for other communities looking to enhance local healthcare options while also demonstrating the potential of local governance to effectively meet the needs of their residents.